Small Business Development Centers Grant

Requirements captured

Other requirements

Eligible Applicants include: • Fully accredited institutions of higher education, such as public and private universities, state, and community colleges. • Private nonprofit organizations engaged in economic development activities. • Local counties or municipalities with established community/economic development departments and/or programs. • Public economic development institutions such as workforce investment boards and economic development corporations. Only applicants seeking to serve as an Illinois SBDC service center are eligible to receive direct awards from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). o Satellites may be included in service center applications but will not receive direct funding from DCEO; they must be supported through subawards or MOUs with their service center partner. o Service centers may submit consolidated applications to host specialty designations, including International Trade Centers (ITCs) and manufacturing specialties. Each applicant shall demonstrate the following attributes: o A well-established host organization (at least 5 years in operation) with a mission aligned to the Illinois SBDC mission. o Fiscal soundness, with the ability to cash flow SBDC operations at the start of the program year and provide documented proof of required cash match sources. o Experience in receiving, expending, tracking, and reporting government funding. o Capacity to attract and retain a well-rounded, educated, and experienced staff committed to serving small businesses. o Ability to identify and access a wide range of small business-related resources to support client needs. o Defined service area aligned with geographical coverage of the state.

A preparation schedule will appear when a confirmed future deadline is available.